Austin is constantly topping “Best Cities,” or “Best Places to Live” lists, and it is so easy to see why. A vibrant and diverse community comprises the Texan city, and it is only bolstered by an exceedingly delicious food scene and exciting cultural arts.

Austin is great because of the people who worked and continue to work hard to make it this way. Without a strong community, Austin would be just like any other city in America. You should give back to your community to maintain your community and to allow for it to grow.

Think about all the awesome music Austin is known for. If community members did not buy tickets to shows, show up to said shows, or support local bands and artists, the community would not have such great music—or it may not have a strong music scene at all.

If food lovers did not go out to try new restaurants or revisit tried and true favorites, the restaurant scene could not be sustainable. It is due to community investment, involvement and support that new restaurants open up or chefs make daring new dishes. A desire to satisfy the community that fuels the food industry is a major reason why said industry is so respected and famed.

When the community shows up to events like farmer’s markets, road races, concerts in parks, and other community-based and driven gatherings, everyone benefits. The community benefits by investing in their city just as much as the city benefits from community investments.

If you are looking for ways to give back to your beloved city of Austin, you should considers volunteering in philanthropic roles, going out to try a new hot restaurant (and go back again if you love it!), donating to your favorite museums, and catching an open mic night.

The better-loved Austin is by its locals, the better-loved it will become by everyone who comes into contact with it. Spread the word about how much you love your community and encourage others to come check it out. Austin is built upon the people who love it and as long as enough people continue to love Austin, Austin will love them back.

Your city will thank you and you are guaranteed to have fun while giving back.